Title:  Sr. Manager, R&D Finance

Position Overview and Responsibilities

The Head MENA R&D FP&A & Global R&D Reporting is a senior-level finance professional responsible for overseeing all financial planning and analysis activities related to the R&D portfolio in the MENA region, as well as leading global R&D reporting initiatives. This pivotal position includes full-cycle management of budgeting, forecasting, reporting, accounting close, and strategic financial evaluations for R&D investments. The leader also manages, develops, and mentors a team of three finance professionals, ensuring exemplary financial support for both R&D and commercial stakeholders. In the global R&D reporting capacity, the role is accountable for harmonizing reporting standards across the group, providing consolidated financial reporting, and supporting regional finance teams with reporting and analytics.

Key Responsibilities MENA

· R&D Finance Leadership (MENA): Direct all facets of financial management for the R&D portfolio, encompassing budgeting, forecasting, planning, accounting close, reporting, and analytics. Offer strategic guidance for investment and resource allocation, ensuring financial accuracy and alignment with organizational goals.

· Portfolio & Investment Analysis: Partner with R&D and Commercial teams to evaluate the financial viability of pipeline products and projects by projecting and analyzing cash flows at each stage of the product lifecycle. Support value creation, risk management, and ensure investment proposals meet internal standards.

· Strategic Business Partnership: Serve as a trusted advisor to R&D and commercial leadership in the MENA region. Take part in management forums and investment reviews, providing financial insights and actionable recommendations to enable data-driven decisions and maximize long-term value.

· Budgeting & Reporting: Lead the creation and monitoring of annual and multi-year R&D budgets, delivering comprehensive monthly and quarterly financial reporting, variance analyses, and updates for management. Ensure costs are allocated accurately and leadership is kept informed in a timely manner.

· Controls & Compliance: Maintain strict internal controls and fiscal discipline, ensuring all financial operations within R&D adhere to GAAP, company policies, and relevant regulatory standards.

· Continuous Improvement: Drive process improvements across R&D finance operations to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and value. Encourage best practices in budgeting, reporting, analysis, and evaluation.

· Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor a team of three finance professionals, fostering a high-performing and collaborative environment that works closely with R&D and commercial teams.

Key Responsibilities Global Reporting

· Harmonize reporting across the group, including streamlining Product selection processes and templates to ensure consistency and efficiency.

· Provide consolidated reporting on OPEX, CAPEX, and projected financial ROIs to the R&D leadership team, enabling comprehensive financial oversight and strategic decision-making.

· Deliver reporting and analytics support to regional finance teams, facilitating informed financial planning and performance monitoring across all regions.

Reporting Structure

· Reports to: Global Head of FP&A

· Direct Reports: Three finance professionals

· Collaborates with: R&D, Commercial, Finance, and Project Management teams across MENA

Qualifications and Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degrees (e.g., MBA, MSc) or certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA) are a significant advantage.

· At least 7 years of progressive experience in financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ideally within the pharmaceutical sector or related industries in the MENA region.

· Proven ability to lead and develop finance teams, with a successful track record in coaching and talent development.

· Expertise in financial modeling and advanced analytics, including project feasibility, cash flow analysis, and ROI evaluation.

· Strong proficiency with financial systems, ERP platforms, and data visualization tools such as Power BI.

· Experience supporting cross-functional initiatives and leading process improvements in a matrixed, multicultural environment.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders effectively.

· Deep understanding of accounting principles, internal controls, compliance, and financial reporting best practices.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.

· Passion for new technologies and skill in explaining complex financial topics to non-financial audiences.